Award-winning author Patrick Ness burst onto the YA scene in 2008 with The Knife of Never Letting Go, the first in a dystopian science fiction trilogy that, despite its setting on an invented planet, explores deep issues of humanity such as racism, gender bias, terrorism, oppression, and resistance. Ness's trilogy also features compelling characters, inventive use of language, and extensive world-building. Another stand-alone book, A Monster Calls, is perhaps best categorized as magical realism; as with the Chaos Walking trilogy, it incisively explores complex issues and emotions. Start with: The Knife of Never Letting Go

Award-winning author Patrick Ness burst onto the YA scene in 2008 with The Knife of Never Letting Go, the first in a dystopian science fiction trilogy that, despite its setting on an invented planet, explores deep issues of humanity such as racism, gender bias, terrorism, oppression, and resistance. Ness's trilogy also features compelling characters, inventive use of language, and extensive world-building. Another stand-alone book, A Monster Calls, is perhaps best categorized as magical realism; as with the Chaos Walking trilogy, it incisively explores complex issues and emotions. Start with: The Knife of Never Letting Go